Review: Zimmer Shines On Melodic Debut, Self-Titled Album

French producer Zimmer first started to breakout four or five years ago with a soothing type of house that was both subdued and danceable. He has since released a slew of EPs, singles and remixed to help hone in on that sound. But as we see in modern dance music, producers break out with a single, but can be defined by their albums. Zimmer is acknowledging that and his improved writing with his debut, self-titled album.

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On first impression, this album is a very easy listen. The melodies wash over you like getting into a hot tub on a cold night. Melodies weave into each other and create a smooth plane throughout the full 50-minute LP. It is just the right length without compromising on quality by adding filler.

The album starts with the gentle and melodic “Physique” that feels like an appropriate opener to the record. It slowly builds with vocal chants, drums and piano layering on top of the main synth melody. This transitions into the lead single “Wildflowers” with Panama, which is more drum based and danceable with the vocals from Panama already helping to show another element of the album.

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On Zimmer, there are only three vocal collaborations, but they come at the right time to help break up the instrumentals. In general, the album is quite cheery like the hints of “Tell Me Why” or "Smalltown Boy" on “Techno Disco,” but it can also be a little darker on tunes like “Dawn” or “Beast.”

It isn’t just slow, melodic songs as well. There are a few records that are primed for the dance floor like “Mouvement” or Beast.”

"You will find both euphoria and nostalgia on my album, there are soft and dreaming tracks, as well as more intense and techno ones," explains Zimmer in a statement.

In total, Zimmer puts together an album that sounds complete and has a central theme to it. The record covers a fair amount of ground without losing its purpose or getting too complicated. You may get lost in a few of the more hypnotic records in the middle, but Zimmer brings you back right after.